Do Arnica and Bromelain increase the risk of bleeding if taken after surgery?

Question

I'll be undergoing breast augmentation and abdominoplasty in June. I'm trying to figure out ways to maximize my surgery recovery without causing additional problems.

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question! The recommendations for the use of these homeopathic medications are surgeon preference. I typically suggest the use of Arnica Montana to decrease swelling and bruising. It is an herbal medication that is propagated from the seeds of an herb. I, as well as my patients, have seen some benefit with the treatment in the postoperative period. Although there is little evidence to its effectiveness, I believe there is some benefit, and no harm. I recommend 4-5 tablets under the tongue 4x/day for 3-5 days prior and 5-7 days after the procedure. Hope that this helps! Best wishes!

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

I personally think taking these drugs is absolute nonsense. I don't think there is significant chance of harm but there certainly nothing to suggest there is any benefit. If in doubt don't take them.

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

I have my patients take VitaMedica which contains these products that help with bruising and swelling, but this is something you should disucss with your doctor. Good luck!

Clark Schierle, MD, PhD, FACS · Answer

Arnica and Bromelain will help your bruising and swelling resolve more quickly but will not affect the final outcome. They shouldn't cause any problems if you are using high quality formultions from a reputable source as directed.

Brian Coan, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question.
Understand that Arnica and Bromelain are homeopathic remedies and not endorsed
by the FDA. 
Whenever taking homeopathic drugs, always consult with your plastic
surgeon.  Best to you.  –Dr. Coan.

Robert Singer, MD · Answer

Arnica Montana
is a homeopathic drug that is claimed to reduce bruising and swelling.
Anecdotally, many patients and plastic surgeons feel that Arnica does have a
benefit. There are, however, conflicting reports in the valid scientific
literature about these claims. Bromelin (Bromelain), another homeopathic
medication, is a mixture of enzymes found naturally in the juice and stems of
pineapples and also purported to reduce swelling, bruising, inflammation and
pain after surgery. This supplement, which is often taken along with Arnica, is
also controversial with regard to efficacy. Neither should increase the risk of bleeding.I would suggest you discuss this with your
plastic surgeon who should be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and ideally
a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS)
 that you trust and are comfortable with. It is critical that he or she should be aware of
all medications, supplements, minerals, vitamins, and herbs that you are
taking, because they may interfere with normal blood coagulation, healing, and
anesthesia.Robert Singer, MD 
FACSLa Jolla, California

Carlos Burnett, MD, FACS · Answer

Arnica and Bromelain are not known to cause bleeding after surgery. These agents reportedly help to minimize bruising and swelling. Good luck with your surgery.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

No, these medications are not known to increase risk of bleeding. Best to run questions regarding peri operative medications ( and all details of postoperative care) by your plastic surgeon. Best wishes for an outcome that you will be very pleased with.

David Marcus, MD (retired) · Answer

I have been prescribing post operative Arnica for 30 years. When used properly I believe it is of great benefit.  However, it is a most delicate remedy.  There can be nothing injested within 30 minutes of taking it.  Before OR after.  Also, you must avoid any strong odors during that one hour time frame. Arnica is merely the " essence " of the mountain flower Arnica Montana.  When measured, the actual flower is no longer detectable.  Only the vibrational essence of that flower remains. I know, sounds crazy. But, very real. Thus, it is so easy to antidote its essence and therefore its effect and benefit if not handled and administered properly. Even the touch of your fingers can invalidate the benefit.  Always pour the pellets onto your tongue from the bottle.  We also often use Rescue remedy and Star of Bethlehem after trauma. Nux vomica is helpful for post op nausea in recovery.  These are profound remedies with very specific applications based on matching the disorder with the known benefits of the remedies. Entire medical school curriculums are dedicated to this study.  They work, but must be used properly.

Do Arnica and Bromelain increase the risk of bleeding if taken after surgery?

Answers (9)

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